5 Places to Visit in Thessaloniki

This week’s Destination of the Week is Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece, has a very modern feel in part due to the major shopping streets around the centre and also the large student population from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. This doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of historical landmarks, some of which we will highlight in this. 

How to get there
You can fly direct to Thessaloniki from Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Stansted and Newcastle. As well as this it has many domestic flights and can be used to connect and reach some of the Islands. Thessaloniki is also the gateway to Halkidiki, if you're looking to go to Halkidiki read our best things to do there

Looking at the White Tower from the waterfront

1 – The White Tower
The White Tower is probably Thessaloniki’s most famous monument, built in 1430 it was originally part of the city walls and held prisoners. Today the tower houses the White Tower Museum which is dedicated to Thessaloniki’s history from the Roman Era to the present day. These exhibitions are held in its many small rooms up and down the tower and give you an insight into the forces that have shaped the city into the place it is today. The stairs will take you to the top and from there you can see out across much of the city.  

A Gallery in Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum

2 – The Archaeological Museum
One of the great things about the history of Thessaloniki is that it has experienced so much and each period has its own museum across the city. The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is one of the largest museums in Greece and houses pieces from the Ancient Greek and Roman Periods found around Thessaloniki and in Greek Macedonia. Its located in the centre of city and is a great part of its cultural life. It has many permanent exhibits and regularly has new and exciting exhibitions for you to go and see. 

The Rotunda of Galerius at night

3 – The Rotunda of Galerius
One of the oldest standing buildings in the city, it was originally built as a mausoleum for Galerius, the Emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire AD 305-311. It was then converted into a church by Constantine and later a mosque. This makes it a fascinating visit to see layers of history and see how each owner has made its mark. A particular highlight are the mosaics on the ceiling. Nearby is the Arch of Galerius, this was actually built in his lifetime to mark his victory over the Persians in 297 AD, the ornate carvings which depict battles up and down what remains of the arch are a wonder to behold.

Agios Pavlos sits atop a hill overlooking the city

4 – Agios Pavlos
One of the many churches in Thessaloniki, Agios Pavlos sits on a hill in the northeast of the city and provides some spectacular views across the landscape. Whilst providing views from its position it is also one the most beautiful of Thessaloniki’s churches both to look at and inside.

Kapani Market

5 – Kapani Market 
Thessaloniki is famous for its food and there’s no better place to see this all-in-one place and get a feel of the local produce than one of Thessaloniki’s markets. Kapani Market is located in the heart of the city centre and it is an open-air market with roofs over the walkways between stores. One of the best in Thessaloniki, you will find the best local products in the city: olives, spices, herbs, cheeses and meat or fish and even clothes, shoes, flowers and more. Kapani Market is open every day except Sunday so make sure you stop by and take a walk around when you visit the city.  

We hope that this has helped give you a bit more of idea about what you can do in Thessaloniki whether you’re just there for a city break or as part of a trip. Check out the rest of the website for more information on the mainland and over 80 of the Greek islands. If you’re looking for holidays to Greece and her islands or just want to ask a question don’t hesitate to get in touch on 0115 784 3388 or email [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media to find out the next Destination of the Week and for all your Greek Holiday needs. If you've been to Thessaloniki, where was your favourite place, thing to do or is there anything we missed? Let us know in the comments or on social media